Every event and festival in Japan in 2026, month by month — dates, venues and tickets, before they happen.
OfficialPast event© おにく · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan's largest illumination: millions of LEDs transform a flower park near Nagoya into glowing tunnels and light shows.
Thu, Jan 15, 2026 17:00 JST Across JapanAdmission around 2,500 yen (includes a park voucher)
OfficialPast event© kimubert · CC BY 2.0Glowing arches of hundreds of thousands of lights fill Kobe each winter, a moving memorial turned beloved festival.
Fri, Jan 23, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© 名古屋太郎 · CC BY-SA 4.0Each January, fireworks burst over Nara before the entire grass-covered Mt. Wakakusa is set ablaze in a spectacular winter ritual.
Sat, Jan 24, 2026 17:30 JST NaraFree
OfficialPast event© Kinori · Public DomainHokkaido's winter wonderland: giant snow and ice sculptures fill Odori Park, drawing over two million visitors each February.
Wed, Feb 4, 2026 10:00 JST SapporoFree
OfficialPast event© tab2_dawa · CC BY 2.0One of Japan's three great gardens glows after dark in seasonal light-up events, from snowy yukitsuri ropes to autumn-leaf reflections.
Fri, Feb 6, 2026 17:30 JST KanazawaFree
OfficialPast event© Diego Molla · CC BY-SA 3.0Otaru's historic canal and old streets glow with thousands of candles in snow lanterns, a quiet, romantic counterpoint to Sapporo's snow festival.
Fri, Feb 13, 2026 17:00 JST SapporoFree
OfficialPast event© 雷太 · CC BY 2.0A UNESCO World Heritage village of steep thatched gassho-zukuri farmhouses, nestled in a mountain valley that turns magical under snow.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026 09:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Hyppolyte de Saint-Rambert · CC BY-SA 4.0Monks brandish giant flaming torches along Todaiji's Nigatsudo balcony each March, showering sparks over the crowd in a 1,200-year-old rite.
Thu, Mar 12, 2026 19:00 JST NaraFree
OfficialPast event© Chad Davis · CC BY 2.0Japan's biggest anime expo: trailers, stage events, voice actors and exclusive goods from every major studio.
Sat, Mar 21, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoTickets around 2,500 yen; some stage events require extra entry
OfficialPast event© Stephane D'Alu · CC BY-SA 3.0One of Tokyo's most famous hanami spots: 1,000 cherry trees line Ueno Park's central path in a pink canopy each spring.
Wed, Mar 25, 2026 09:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Kakidai · CC BY-SA 3.0Hundreds of cherry trees arch over the Meguro River, and at night pink paper lanterns turn the canal into a dream.
Thu, Mar 26, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Conveyor belt sushi · CC BY 2.0Gion's geiko and maiko perform the elegant Miyako Odori every April, a dazzling spring dance of kimono, music and seasonal scenes.
Wed, Apr 1, 2026 12:30 JST KyotoTickets from around 4,000 yen; tea-ceremony seats cost more
OfficialPast event© United States Embassy in Japan · Public domainJapan's largest LGBTQ+ celebration fills Yoyogi Park with a parade, live stages, food and a vibrant, welcoming community.
Sat, Apr 25, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialOn now© Douggers · Public DomainA 1,300-year-old torchlit tradition: Gifu's Imperial cormorant masters work leashed birds on the Nagara River nightly, May 11-October 15, 2026.
Until Thu, Oct 15, 2026 20:30 JST Across JapanShared sightseeing boat (2026 rates): ¥4,200 adults / ¥2,100 children on regular days; ¥5,100 adults / ¥2,600 children on peak dates. Watching for free from the riverbank is also possible.
OfficialOn now© Momopy~commonswiki · CC BY-SA 3.0USJ's anime-and-game mega-event marks its 10th anniversary with five blockbuster Japanese titles, including the park debut of 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End' running into January 2027.
Until Mon, Jan 11, 2027 21:00 JST OsakaRequires a Studio Pass (1-day from around 8,600 yen); some Cool Japan attractions need a separate Express Pass.
OfficialPast event© Banzai Hiroaki · CC BY 2.0Okinawa's Golden Week dragon-boat festival packs Naha's port with thundering paddle races, music stages and fireworks over the harbor.
Sun, May 3, 2026 09:00 JST OkinawaFree
OfficialPast event© Taisyo · CC BY 3.0A vibrant Golden Week celebration along Peace Boulevard, with flower parades, yosakoi dancing, music stages and a giant flower tower.
Sun, May 3, 2026 09:30 JST HiroshimaFree
OfficialPast event© Jose Fernando from Tokyo, Japan · CC BY-SA 2.0One of Tokyo's three great festivals: hundreds of portable shrines parade through Akihabara and the old Edo districts.
Sat, May 9, 2026 08:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Torsodog · CC BY-SA 3.0Asakusa's wildest weekend: nearly 100 portable shrines and two million people flood the streets around Senso-ji Temple.
Fri, May 15, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialOn now© Mr.henry yanayah · CC BY-SA 4.0USJ celebrates 25 years with a year-long 'Discover U!!!' festival — a new anniversary parade, classic film cars on display and special entertainment running from spring 2026 into March 2027.
Until Tue, Mar 30, 2027 21:00 JST OsakaIncluded with a Studio Pass (1-day from around 8,600 yen); no separate ticket for the anniversary entertainment.
OfficialOn now© Matryokeshi · CC BY-SA 3.0Hello Kitty's indoor theme park celebrates 35 years with ribbon-themed decor and 'The Quest of Wonders' — its first all-new main parade in a decade — running all the way through the end of 2026.
Until Thu, Dec 31, 2026 20:00 JST TokyoPassport tickets from around 3,300-4,000 yen (varies by date); cheaper online and on weekdays.
OfficialOn now© Cabeza2000 · CC BY-SA 4.0The world's only ocean-themed Disney park turns 25 with a year-long 'Sparkling Jubilee' — a new harbor show, the 'Dance the Globe!' production and 'Jubilee Blue' decor across all eight ports.
Until Wed, Mar 31, 2027 21:00 JST TokyoRequires a Tokyo DisneySea park ticket (1-day from around 7,900 yen, price varies by date).
OfficialPast event© Danko Georgiev · CC BY-SA 3.0A grand samurai procession reenacts a feudal lord's entry into Kanazawa, complete with armor, geisha and lantern-lit floats.
Fri, Jun 5, 2026 14:00 JST KanazawaFree
OfficialPast event© Dariusz Jemielniak · CC BY-SA 3.0Hiroshima's beloved summer kickoff: locals don yukata and fill the downtown streets for three festive nights.
Fri, Jun 5, 2026 16:00 JST HiroshimaFree
OfficialPast event© OKJaguar · CC BY-SA 4.0Sapporo erupts in color as thousands of dancers perform high-energy yosakoi routines through the streets each June.
Wed, Jun 10, 2026 10:00 JST SapporoFree
LumaPast event© HANGOUT · via LumaA first-anniversary celebration at MAISON ROSE in Shibuya — drinks, music and a welcoming international crowd.
Sat, Jun 20, 2026 17:30 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
LumaPast event© 福田涼 · via LumaTokyo's friendly pickleball meetup at TIPNESS Kichijoji — paddles provided, all levels welcome.
Sat, Jun 20, 2026 20:00 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
LumaPast event© Proof of Sweat · via LumaA sociable 5K morning run from Yoyogi Park's clock tower — find your pace with a friendly international run club.
Sun, Jun 21, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
LumaPast event© iiyon!! · via LumaRun 5K then refuel with craft beer at ØL by Oslo Brewing — Tokyo's run-and-pint social.
Sun, Jun 21, 2026 12:00 JST Tokyo¥1,500
connpassPast event© 東京-山梨 AI ミートアップ · via connpassLearn how Xserver rolled out the Claude Code AI assistant while balancing security and remote-work efficiency.
Sun, Jun 21, 2026 13:00 JST TokyoFree
LumaPast event© AmaterasSpace · via LumaFounders and researchers gather at X-NIHONBASHI to talk the future of human spaceflight.
Sun, Jun 21, 2026 15:00 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
LumaPast event© LIFE DESIGN CLUB · via LumaA reflective life-design workshop in Minato on the theme of self-love — journaling and honest conversation.
Sun, Jun 21, 2026 15:00 JST Tokyo¥6,600
OfficialPast event© BLM Nevada · CC BY-SA 2.0Some 20,000 hydrangeas in 50 varieties carpet a hillside temple garden in Uji — including the elusive star-shaped 'shichidanka' — with weekend evening light-ups.
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 08:30 JST KyotoGarden admission approx. ¥1,000 (adults).
connpassPast event© 音声系国際会議読み会 (ICASSPEECH) · via connpassA hybrid paper-reading session on ICASSP 2026 machine-learning research—speech synthesis, recognition, and voice conversion—open to all.
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© 株式会社マネーフォワード · via connpassAn evening on real-world HR data and AI, with People Analytics talks and group discussions among practitioners.
Mon, Jun 22, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© 株式会社ナレッジワーク · via connpassThree expert sessions on vector search, embeddings, and RAG-driven AI chat, high atop Azabudai Hills.
Tue, Jun 23, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© DannyWithLove · CC BY-SA 4.0Wade barefoot through water and light in this immersive digital-art museum where you become part of the artwork.
Wed, Jun 24, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoAdmission around 3,800 yen; book timed tickets online in advance
OfficialPast event© Akosygin · Public DomainDive into otaku heaven: multi-floor anime stores, retro arcades, maid cafes and gachapon as far as the eye can see.
Wed, Jun 24, 2026 12:00 JST TokyoFree
LumaPast event© Jack Teramura · via LumaA hands-on intermediate workshop for engineers building with ElevenAgent voice-AI tooling.
Wed, Jun 24, 2026 15:00 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
connpassPast event© 株式会社スペースデータ · via connpassNVIDIA and industry experts explore how digital twins power autonomous decisions in disaster prevention and urban infrastructure.
Wed, Jun 24, 2026 16:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© freee Tech Night · via connpassfreee engineers explain disposable per-PR preview environments that tame microservice complexity in the AI-coding era.
Wed, Jun 24, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Asanagi · CC0Sip cocktails above the city: Tokyo's hotel rooftop and sky bars offer dazzling skyline views from up high.
Wed, Jun 24, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoCocktails typically 1,800-3,000 yen; some bars have a cover charge
OfficialPast event© Syced · CC0Tokyo's food paradise: graze on fresh sushi, tamagoyaki and seafood at the historic Tsukiji Outer Market.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 08:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Maplestrip · CC BY 3.0The flagship Pokemon store in Ikebukuro, packed with exclusive plush, seasonal merch and a giant Pikachu welcoming fans.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Domenico Convertini · CC BY-SA 2.0teamLab Borderless Azabudai Hills is open roughly 9:00–21:00 (Jul 2026). Tickets are timed, online-only, from ¥3,800 (adult; varies by day, +¥200 at the door), a 2-min walk from Kamiyacho Station. Allow 2–3 hours — always confirm exact hours on the official site before booking.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoAdult (18+) from ¥3,800 online, +¥200 for door purchase; teens 13–17 ¥2,800, child 4–12 ¥1,500, age 3 and under free, with a disability discount available. Pricing is dynamic and varies by day, so always check the exact fare for your date on the official site. As of July 2026.
OfficialPast event© Syced · CC0Wander Japan's largest Chinatown for steaming nikuman, xiaolongbao and panda sweets among ornate gates and red lanterns.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 11:00 JST YokohamaFree
OfficialPast event© Matthide127 · CC0Yokohama's glittering bayfront at night — ride the giant Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel and stroll the illuminated waterfront promenade.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 17:00 JST YokohamaFree
connpassPast event© ファインディ株式会社 · via connpassFindy celebrates its DevRel offline community with lightning talks on the trajectories of sharing knowledge.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 18:30 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© クリエイター広場 · via connpassFrontier practitioners explore AI tools, autonomous agents, code quality, and engineering careers in the AI era.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© 株式会社サイバーエージェント · via connpassCyberAgent engineers share Databricks migration stories, analytics democratization with Genie, and secure platform design.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© urbzoo · CC BY 2.0A maze of 200+ tiny, characterful bars in Shinjuku — squeeze in, meet strangers, and barhop into the small hours.
Thu, Jun 25, 2026 20:00 JST TokyoMany bars charge a 500-1,000 yen seating fee plus drinks; some are foreigner-friendly
OfficialPast event© Mitchwandrew · CC BY 4.0Walk a luminous path through towering bamboo in Kyoto's Arashiyama, where filtered light and rustling stalks feel otherworldly.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 07:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0Explore the crimson seat of the former Ryukyu Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage site now rising again from its 2019 fire.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 09:00 JST OkinawaPark areas free; paid zones include the reconstruction site view
OfficialPast event© H.Hmoderato · CC BY-SA 4.0Pick from hundreds of kimono, get dressed by friendly staff, and stroll Senso-ji and the old streets of Asakusa in full traditional style — booking and support in English.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoWomen's standard from ¥2,500; with hair set ¥3,500; couple plan ¥6,500 (return by 5:00 pm)
connpassPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A full-day deep dive into DNS operations, from fundamentals to advanced authoritative and resolver topics.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Unknown · CC BY-SA 3.0Contemporary art on the 53rd floor of Roppongi Hills, paired with one of Tokyo's best skyline views from the City View deck.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoAdmission around 2,000 yen; often includes the observation deck
OfficialPast event© Atticus nguyen · CC BY-SA 4.0Learn the graceful art of the Japanese tea ceremony in a traditional Kyoto machiya, hosted in English for visitors.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 11:00 JST KyotoSessions typically 2,500-6,000 yen; reservations required
LumaPast event© City Green · via LumaA free open-air music night at SUNSET PARK CLUB — good sound, green vibes and an easy crowd.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoFree
LumaPast event© AnotherBall · via LumaA meetup at the crossroads of AI and entertainment, hosted by AnotherBall for creators and fans.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
MeetupPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Practice Japanese and help others with English at relaxed, recurring language-exchange meetups across Tokyo.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoOften free entry; buy your own drinks
OfficialPast event© Dick Thomas Johnson · CC BY 2.0Shibuya's iconic four-floor superclub, famous for its giant mirror ball and world-class techno and house lineups.
Fri, Jun 26, 2026 23:00 JST TokyoCover typically 2,000-4,000 yen; bring photo ID (20+)
OfficialPast event© Hyppolyte de Saint-Rambert · CC BY 4.0One of Japan's most sacred shrines, set in a tranquil ancient forest in Nagoya and home to the legendary Kusanagi sword.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 09:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialPast event© Rob Young · CC BY 2.0Tokyo's favorite escape: an easy, scenic mountain just an hour from Shinjuku, with temples, trails and a cable car.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 09:00 JST TokyoFree
LumaPast event© AI Builders · via LumaBuild with Gemini at Google Japan's Shibuya office — a hands-on AI hackathon for builders.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 09:30 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
LumaPast event© Isheba Cornwall · via LumaA free, easygoing gathering for book lovers to read together and swap summer recommendations.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© KuboBella · CC BY-SA 4.0An English-speaking host walks you through a real matcha tea ceremony — whisking, etiquette and wagashi sweets — in a serene tatami tea room near Senso-ji, with optional kimono rental.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoFrom about ¥6,000 per person; kimono-included plans cost more
LumaPast event© F Ventures · via LumaA flagship startup pitch and networking summit by F Ventures at Bellesalle Shibuya First.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 12:00 JST Tokyo¥80,000
connpassPast event© サポーターズCoLab（株式会社サポーターズ） · via connpassA summer-festival tech conference on 'AI and Career' with ~20 speakers, for engineers under 35.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 12:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Dick Thomas Johnson · CC BY 2.0A retro shopping complex packed with vintage manga, rare figures, idol goods and Tokyo's famous towering soft-serve ice cream.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 12:00 JST TokyoFree
LumaPast event© Introverts' Home · via LumaA relaxed photo-bingo walking tour of retro Shibamata — gentle, social and great for solo joiners.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 12:30 JST Tokyo¥2,000
OfficialPast event© Savannah Rivka · CC BY-SA 4.0Suit up in samurai armor, learn the basics of swordsmanship, and throw real ninja shuriken on a guided English tour through Japan's warrior history in Asakusa.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 13:00 JST TokyoBasic ticket from about ¥3,000 (adult); premium experiences cost more
connpassPast event© 東京Ruby会議13実行委員会 · via connpassA Ruby community conference on 'what lies behind the curtain,' with talks from sorah, Masayoshi Takahashi and more.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 13:30 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Auckland Museum Collections from Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand · CC BY 2.0Dress in samurai armor, try sword training and throw shuriken on an English guided tour through Japan's warrior history in the heart of downtown Kyoto.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 14:00 JST KyotoBasic ticket from about ¥3,000 (adult); longer experiences cost more
JmtyPast event© Basile Morin · CC BY-SA 4.0A laid-back evening picnic in Yoyogi Park with music, dancing and an international crowd—bring something to share and make friends from around the world.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 16:00 JST TokyoFrom ¥500 (with coupon; welcome drink included)
OfficialPast event© Sakai Yayoi · CC0Dive into retro Shinsekai beneath Tsutenkaku Tower for Osaka's famous deep-fried kushikatsu skewers and neon old-Osaka charm.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 17:00 JST OsakaSkewers from around 130 yen each
OfficialPast event© mmry0241 · CC BY-SA 3.0Fukuoka's riverside yatai stalls serve tonkotsu ramen, oden and yakitori under lantern light — the heart of Kyushu nightlife.
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 19:00 JST FukuokaPay per dish; a bowl of ramen and a beer around 1,500 yen
OfficialPast event© Umio · CC BY-SA 4.0Tour a historic 1909 sake brewery in Kyoto's Fushimi district, see the old tools of the trade, taste the pure underground water, and finish with a sake tasting — all for ¥600.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 10:00 JST Kyoto¥600 admission (age 20+, includes sake tasting); ¥100 ages 13-19, free under 12
OfficialPast event© Nnaluci · CC BY-SA 3.0Roll and shape your own nigiri and maki under a professional English-speaking instructor, then sit down and eat everything you made — a hands-on intro to sushi steps from Senso-ji.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 10:00 JST Tokyo¥13,000 per person (ingredients, equipment, instruction and the sushi you make all included)
connpassPast event© きのこカンファレンス実行委員会 · via connpassVeteran engineers (40+) share perspectives on career longevity and sustaining a life in tech.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 10:00 JST Tokyo¥1,000 (main event); networking reception ¥3,000–¥5,000 by age
connpassPast event© 一般社団法人リサーチアソシエーション · via connpassJapan's conference on design and UX research, themed 'WEAVING,' with sessions, panels and workshops.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.5Learn to hold the brush, control the ink and write kanji the traditional way in a 90-minute English-led shodo class — and take your finished artwork home as a keepsake.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 11:00 JST KyotoReserve via the official site for current pricing
OfficialPast event© Guilhem Vellut · CC BY 2.0A historic waterfront landmark hosting seasonal events year-round — Christmas markets, an ice rink, beer festivals and bay views.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 11:00 JST YokohamaFree
OfficialPast event© 663highland · CC BY 2.5Stroll Kyoto's historic Fushimi sake quarter, where soft spring water and centuries-old breweries make some of Japan's finest sake.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 11:00 JST KyotoTastings and museum entry from a few hundred yen
LumaPast event© iiyon!! · via LumaA rooftop BBQ and beer-garden party under Tokyo Tower — grill, drinks and skyline views.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 16:00 JST Tokyo¥7,500
LumaPast event© Nanako · via LumaLie back and feel the resonance of Japanese taiko in an immersive sound-bath session.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 16:30 JST Tokyo¥7,000
OfficialPast event© Brett Fagan · CC0Kobe's waterfront glitters after dark — the red Port Tower, illuminated promenade and bay views make for a relaxed romantic evening.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 17:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Syced · CC0Japan's most famous baseball club under the dome — easy, all-weather pro baseball in the heart of Tokyo.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoReserved seats from about ¥2,200 to ¥7,000+
OfficialPast event© Stephen Kelly · CC BY 2.0Tokyo's indie-music heartland: tiny live houses, record shops and bars host emerging bands almost every night.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoLive-house entry typically 2,000-3,500 yen incl. one drink
MeetupPast event© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0Friendly recurring meetups in Osaka where travelers, expats and locals mingle over drinks and language practice.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 19:00 JST OsakaUsually free or low-cost entry; drinks separate
OfficialPast event© Kazuhisa OTSUBO · CC BY 2.0Aoyama's intimate world-class jazz club, hosting top international musicians over dinner and cocktails most nights.
Sun, Jun 28, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoMusic charge varies by act (often 8,000-15,000 yen); reservations recommended
OfficialPast event© tab2_dawa · CC BY 2.0Pair Japan's celebrated Kenrokuen Garden with the restored Kanazawa Castle next door — landscaped ponds, teahouses and white turrets.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 09:00 JST KanazawaKenrokuen entry around 320 yen; castle park grounds mostly free
OfficialPast event© Carla Antonini · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan's oldest and largest museum in Ueno Park, home to samurai armor, Buddhist art and an unrivaled national treasure collection.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 09:00 JST TokyoRegular collection around 1,000 yen; special exhibits priced separately
OfficialPast event© Lianguanlun · CC BY 4.0Cook Osaka's soul food — okonomiyaki, takoyaki and ramen — with an English-speaking chef in 'Japan's kitchen', then sit down and feast on what you made.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 11:00 JST OsakaVaries by menu and group; reserve via the official site
OfficialPast event© M Disdero · CC BY-SA 2.5Train like a real ninja with a licensed Japanese master — sword, dagger, shuriken and blowgun techniques in a downtown tatami dojo, taught hands-on in English.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 13:00 JST Kyoto1-hour lesson ¥10,000; 2-hour lesson ¥15,000 per person (ninja costume included)
OfficialPast event© Douglas Perkins · CC0Sculpt your own seasonal nerikiri wagashi by hand, then enjoy it with freshly whisked matcha in a kimono — a gentle, English-guided sweets-and-tea workshop near Senso-ji.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 14:00 JST TokyoAbout ¥12,000 per person (kimono rental, ingredients and utensils included)
OfficialPast event© Yasu (talk) · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan's most passionate baseball crowd — join tens of thousands of Tigers fans for a jet-balloon night at historic Koshien.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 18:00 JST OsakaOutfield seats from about ¥2,000; infield reserved ¥6,000–¥9,000+
MeetupPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Join casual mixed sports leagues — football, volleyball, dodgeball — designed to help internationals make friends in Tokyo.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoDrop-in or season fees vary by sport
MeetupPast event© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0Relaxed, recurring language-exchange meetups in Osaka where locals and travelers swap Japanese and English over drinks.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 19:00 JST OsakaOften free entry; buy your own drinks
OfficialPast event© Martin Falbisoner · CC BY-SA 4.0Dive into Osaka's neon nightlife around Dotonbori and Namba — street food, standing bars and dazzling river lights.
Mon, Jun 29, 2026 19:00 JST OsakaPay-as-you-go; standing bars from a few hundred yen per drink
OfficialPast event© Jakub Hałun · CC BY 4.0A short ferry from Hiroshima reaches Miyajima, where the great vermilion torii of Itsukushima Shrine appears to float on the tide.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 09:00 JST HiroshimaFerry and shrine entry each a few hundred yen
OfficialPast event© Tom Parker · Public domainThrow your own bowl or cup on an electric potter's wheel with a third-generation Kyoto ceramicist near Sennyu-ji; your fired piece is shipped to you afterward.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 10:00 JST KyotoQuick course about ¥2,000 (20 min); standard course ¥5,000 (30-60 min), plus tax
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A long-running group running hikes, sports days, parties and day trips for internationals and locals across Tokyo.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPer-event fees vary (hikes, BBQs, parties); see listing
OfficialPast event© Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0Feel the thunder of Japanese wadaiko drums in an English-led lesson — learn the rhythms and stances, then perform together wearing a happi coat, no experience needed.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 15:00 JST TokyoVaries by plan; reserve via the official site (taiko-reserve.com)
OfficialPast event© Chris 73 · CC BY-SA 3.0Taste Nagoya's bold local specialties — miso katsu, hitsumabushi eel, tebasaki wings and curry udon — across the city center.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 17:00 JST NagoyaPay per dish; meals from around 800 yen
connpassPast event© 日本MySQLユーザ会(MyNA) · via connpassOracle leaders and AWS reps discuss MySQL's latest features and the future of community collaboration.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 18:30 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0Fukuoka's growing startup scene hosts regular developer meetups — web, AI, mobile and more — many welcoming and bilingual-friendly.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 19:00 JST FukuokaOften free or low-cost; register on connpass
PeatixPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Laugh the night away at regular English-language stand-up comedy shows hosted by Tokyo's international comedy scene.
Tue, Jun 30, 2026 20:00 JST TokyoTickets typically 1,500-3,000 yen; some open-mic nights free
OfficialOn now© Choi2451 · CC BY-SA 3.0Known as 'Osaka's Kitchen,' this 580-metre covered arcade packs around 150 stalls of fresh seafood, grilled crab, sea urchin, wagyu skewers and street snacks.
Until Thu, Dec 31, 2026 18:00 JST OsakaFree
OfficialOn now© Momopy~commonswiki · CC BY-SA 3.0USJ's 25th-anniversary ONE PIECE event runs July 30–Nov 19, 2026. Premier Show ¥3,000–6,000, Sanji's Pirate Restaurant ¥7,000 (lottery) — full ticket guide.
Until Thu, Nov 19, 2026 21:00 JST OsakaStudio Pass required; the Premier Show and Sanji's Pirate Restaurant need separate paid/lottery tickets.
OfficialPast event© Cesar I. Martins · CC BY 2.0Mt Fuji 2026: Yoshida & Subashiri open July 1, Fujinomiya & Gotemba July 10 (all close Sept 10). ¥4,000 fee, reservation, and gate rules — every trail.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 Across JapanA trail-entry fee applies (around 2,000-4,000 yen); mountain-hut stays extra
OfficialPast event© summonedbyfells · CC BY 2.0Sit zazen with the head monk inside a 400-year-old temple usually closed to the public, just minutes from Roppongi — a calm, English-guided introduction to Zen with tea and sweets.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPrivate experience — contact the operator for pricing
OfficialPast event© Mr.ちゅらさん · CC BY 4.0Catch Japan's top-flight football — choreographed ultras, family-friendly stands and clubs in nearly every city.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 14:00 JST TokyoTickets typically ¥2,000–¥6,000
OfficialPast event© Sergiy Galyonkin · CC BY-SA 2.0Kyoto's most atmospheric nightlife lane — a narrow lantern-lit alley of riverside restaurants, sake bars and traditional teahouses.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 18:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0Settle into Osaka's intimate whisky bars to sample award-winning Japanese single malts poured by passionate bartenders.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 19:00 JST OsakaPours from around 1,000 yen; some bars add a seat charge
connpassPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Dive into Tokyo's booming AI scene at recurring meetups covering LLMs, ML research and applied data science.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0An international bar on Tenjin's Oyafuko-dori that turns into a DJ floor for house, techno, EDM and hip-hop.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 21:00 JST FukuokaDrink-based bar; event door charge varies
OfficialPast event© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0Naha's large resort-style dance club (since 2015) with a full lighting and sound rig, running house, EDM and hip-hop.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 21:00 JST OkinawaWeekday ~¥1,000–3,000 / weekend ~¥1,000–4,000; promos common
OfficialPast event© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0A big, mainstream Umeda club (since 2012) with one of Japan's largest LED screens, leaning EDM and hip-hop.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 21:00 JST OsakaDoor usually includes drink(s); discount coupons common
OfficialPast event© Jovandavid · Public DomainA basement DJ club in Kanazawa's Katamachi district, with weekly DJs across house, techno and EDM.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST KanazawaDoor charge varies by event
OfficialPast event© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0A Sapporo underground institution (25+ years) renowned for one of Japan's finest sound systems — deep house and techno.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST SapporoEntry varies by event (roughly ¥2,500–4,000)
OfficialPast event© Chris 73 · CC BY-SA 3.0An established underground club in Nagoya's Shinsakae district, focused on house and techno with local and international DJs.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST NagoyaVaries by event/DJ (door + advance; often includes drink)
OfficialPast event© Jean-Pierre Dalbéra · CC BY 2.0Kyoto's largest club — a two-floor Kiyamachi venue running EDM/house/techno upstairs and hip-hop on another floor.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST KyotoDoor with drink; tourist-friendly entry packages available
OfficialPast event© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0A record shop, label and tiny dancefloor in Kitahama devoted to underground techno, house and electro.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST OsakaIntimate parties; modest door (some free anniversary parties)
OfficialPast event© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0An iconic Amerikamura club since 1999 — multiple floors and a rooftop running techno, house and trance.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST OsakaVaries by event/DJ (advance + door)
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A small, long-running Dogenzaka DJ bar (since 2005) for minimal techno and house, with weekends that run to 8am.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST TokyoLow door (often ~¥1,000–2,000) or drink-based entry
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A ~300-capacity Shibuya club (since 2015) focused on underground house, techno, bass and drum & bass.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST TokyoDoor typically ¥2,500–3,500 (varies by lineup)
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Nakameguro's intimate basement club since 2008 — a sound-focused little room for house, techno and beat-driven nights.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 22:00 JST TokyoDoor typically ¥2,000–3,000 (early/with-flyer discounts common)
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0An Omotesando basement built around a custom Void sound system, where international house and techno DJs play long, immersive sets.
Wed, Jul 1, 2026 23:00 JST TokyoDoor ~¥3,000–4,000 (cheaper before 1:00); 20+ with photo ID
OfficialPast event© AudaCity3371 · CC BY-SA 3.0Ride one of the world's great cycling routes across the Seto Inland Sea, island-hopping by bike over soaring suspension bridges.
Thu, Jul 2, 2026 08:00 JST HiroshimaBike rental from around 2,000 yen per day
OfficialPast event© City of Kanazawa · CC BY 2.1 jpA circular, glass-walled art museum famous for Leandro Erlich's Swimming Pool — playful, interactive and free to wander outside.
Thu, Jul 2, 2026 10:00 JST KanazawaFree public zones; ticketed exhibition galleries
OfficialPast event© Shakher59 · CC BY-SA 4.0Kabuki's flagship Ginza theatre stages its July all-star run, headlined by a spectacular 13-role quick-change tour de force and a 43-year revival packed with aerial stunts and a real-water finale. English captioning is available.
Thu, Jul 2, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoFrom ¥5,000 (Upper Tier B) up to ¥20,000 (Special Seat). English/Chinese captioning service +¥1,500.
MeetupPast event© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0Kyushu's friendliest city hosts welcoming meetups where travelers and locals connect over food and conversation.
Thu, Jul 2, 2026 19:00 JST FukuokaUsually low-cost entry; drinks separate
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A compact basement club (since 2011) beside the Aoyama tunnel, where DJs mix vinyl and USB across house and techno.
Thu, Jul 2, 2026 21:00 JST TokyoLow door, often around ¥1,500
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A characterful multi-floor venue near Aoyama-dori, running since 1996, with an underground party feel across three floors.
Thu, Jul 2, 2026 22:00 JST TokyoDoor typically ¥2,000–3,000 (varies by event)
OfficialPast event© Marco Togni · CC BY 2.0Tokyo's boldest new nightlife complex inside Kabukicho Tower — multiple floors of techno, house and live art till dawn.
Thu, Jul 2, 2026 23:00 JST TokyoDoor & advance tickets vary by event; 20+ with photo ID
LumaPast event© Tokyo Wellness Community · via LumaStart the day with rooftop yoga in Aoyama, finished with a healthy BELCOMO breakfast.
Fri, Jul 3, 2026 07:30 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
OfficialPast event© Midori (Wikimedia user) · CC BY-SA 3.0One of the Kanto region's largest Tanabata festivals, where central Hiratsuka disappears beneath giant, gaudy bamboo streamers up to ten metres tall.
Fri, Jul 3, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© ajari · CC BY 2.0Explore Kanazawa's gold-leaf workshops, colorful Kutani porcelain and the preserved Higashi Chaya geisha district.
Fri, Jul 3, 2026 10:00 JST KanazawaFree
LumaPast event© Mira Musette · via LumaA free pop-up of paper ephemera and collage at Design Festa Gallery Harajuku — browse, shop, make.
Fri, Jul 3, 2026 10:30 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Takashi Hososhima from Tokyo, Japan · CC BY-SA 2.0The summer edition of Earth Garden turns Yoyogi Park into a festive evening night-market — lanterns, world music, beer and global street food after dark.
Fri, Jul 3, 2026 15:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© Server-Side Kotlin Meetup · via connpassAn offline lightning-talk night for server-side Kotlin developers, capped with a casual networking reception.
Fri, Jul 3, 2026 19:30 JST TokyoFree
JmtyPast event© ゆの (Yuno) · via jmtyMingle with a roughly 50/50 mix of Japanese and Korean locals over a 2-hour all-you-can-drink dinner—perfect for K-pop, K-drama and Korean-food fans.
Fri, Jul 3, 2026 19:50 JST TokyoMen ¥4,000 / Women ¥3,000
OfficialPast event© Suicasmo · CC BY-SA 4.0A mountain hot-spring resort near Mt. Fuji, combining steaming onsen, a sculpture park, a pirate-ship lake cruise and ropeway views.
Sat, Jul 4, 2026 09:00 JST Across JapanOnsen and museum entries vary; a Hakone Free Pass saves on transport
JmtyPast event© Edge place（エッヂプレイス） · via jmtyA relaxed Korean-conversation meetup at a Kyoto café—practice speaking at any level with seats arranged by ability, then swap contacts over coffee.
Sat, Jul 4, 2026 15:00 JST Kyoto¥1,000 (¥500 if no Korean attendees)
connpassPast event© ステラコネクト-ハーモリウム- · via connpassA hands-on Fukuoka meetup to try 'vibe coding' with AI tools like Codex and Claude—build small apps from natural-language prompts together.
Sat, Jul 4, 2026 17:00 JST FukuokaFree
MeetupPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Connect with Japan's startup ecosystem at recurring founder and investor mixers around Shibuya and Roppongi.
Sat, Jul 4, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoSome free, some ticketed (1,000-3,000 yen) — check the listing
LumaPast event© Tokyo Morning Beats. · via LumaA daytime DJ session in an art gallery — coffee, beats and a creative morning crowd.
Sun, Jul 5, 2026 09:00 JST Tokyo¥1,500
OfficialPast event© 663highland · CC BY 2.5An island in the Seto Inland Sea reborn as living art, with Tadao Ando museums, a Yayoi Kusama pumpkin and outdoor installations.
Sun, Jul 5, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanMuseum tickets vary; Chichu Art Museum needs advance booking
LumaPast event© イワケン/岩﨑謙汰 · via LumaIwaken Lab celebrates five years with lightning talks and a community tech showcase — free to join.
Sun, Jul 5, 2026 13:00 JST TokyoPaid (see Luma)
LumaPast event© 宇田川寛和｜TIB JAM · via LumaA free idea-pitching and networking event for builders and founders, hosted at Tama Mirai Messe.
Sun, Jul 5, 2026 14:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Jean-Pierre Dalbéra · CC BY 2.0The Kyoto International Community House hosts cultural exchange events, language cafes and workshops for visitors and residents.
Sun, Jul 5, 2026 14:00 JST KyotoMany events free or low-cost; some workshops ticketed
OfficialPast event© Guilhem Vellut · CC BY 2.0Yokohama's historic waterfront warehouses host seasonal festivals — Oktoberfest, flower garden, ice rink and food fairs.
Mon, Jul 6, 2026 11:00 JST YokohamaFree
connpassPast event© 株式会社タイミー · via connpassA Timee case-study session on business strategy and design challenges—how product design and designers' roles evolve in the AI era.
Mon, Jul 6, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Kyu3 · CC BY-SA 4.0Step into the worlds of Studio Ghibli in Aichi, with life-size sets from Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl's Castle and more.
Tue, Jul 7, 2026 10:00 JST NagoyaTimed tickets required; book online well in advance
JmtyPast event© Jupiter（宮澤） · via jmtyA 90-minute introductory aroma hand-therapy workshop in Yokohama, finishing with a relaxed tea gathering—wellness for caregivers and busy minds.
Tue, Jul 7, 2026 13:30 JST Yokohama¥1,000
OfficialPast event© Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0World-touring taiko troupe DRUM TAO performs a 45-minute show at its own open-air theatre, perched at 1,036m in the grasslands of Aso-Kuju National Park. Thunderous drumming, athletic choreography and sweeping highland views.
Tue, Jul 7, 2026 14:00 JST Across JapanAdults (junior-high+) ¥4,500; children (4+) ¥2,500; under 3 free. Spring/autumn shows at 14:00.
MeetupPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A friendly, long-running monthly meetup for iOS and Swift developers in Tokyo — talks in English, all levels welcome.
Tue, Jul 7, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Nesnad · CC BY 4.0German beer festivals tour Japan's cities each year with imported brews, sausages and live oompah bands.
Wed, Jul 8, 2026 12:00 JST Across JapanFree
connpassPast event© Nutanix Japan G.K. · via connpassA hybrid meetup celebrating the new book 'Nutanix Cloud Platform Practical Guide,' with chapter walkthroughs from its authors.
Wed, Jul 8, 2026 18:30 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Benford Choi · CC BY-SA 3.0Rolling purple lavender fields perfume the Hokkaido hills at Japan's most iconic flower farm, framed by distant snow-capped peaks.
Fri, Jul 10, 2026 08:30 JST SapporoFree
MeetupPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan is a hotspot for Web3 — meet builders and enthusiasts at recurring blockchain and crypto meetups in Tokyo.
Fri, Jul 10, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoOften free or low-cost; some networking events ticketed
OfficialPast event© UP BEAT! / UP BEAT SOUNDWORKS · 提供画像 (Provided by the organiser)UP BEAT!'s 24th-anniversary headline night took over ZEROTOKYO in Shinjuku on Jul 10, 2026, with guests DJ EMMA and KEN ISHII across three floors. The anniversary series concludes Aug 8, 2026 with The Gathering at BANK30, Tokyo.
Fri, Jul 10, 2026 23:00 JST TokyoDoor ¥3,500 (open 23:00, all-night)
OfficialPast event© UP BEAT! / UP BEAT SOUNDWORKS · 提供画像 (Provided by the organiser)UP BEAT!, one of Japan's longest-running house parties, turns 24 with three special 2026 shows — ZEROTOKYO, a Yokohama sunset boat party, and BANK30. Dates, line-ups and tickets.
Fri, Jul 10, 2026 23:00 JST TokyoEach show from ¥3,000 (varies by show; see each page)
JmtyPast event© KIOG (Kansai International Outdoor Gathering) · via jmtyKansai International Outdoor Gathering's summer series of hikes and day trips—July 11 brings veggie-harvesting and pizza-making just north of Osaka.
Sat, Jul 11, 2026 09:00 JST Osaka¥3,190 (includes lunch)
OfficialPast event© Shixart1985 · CC BY 2.0Japan's largest handmade-craft festival, where about 3,000 creators sell jewelry, ceramics, leather, art and food over one weekend.
Sat, Jul 11, 2026 11:00 JST Tokyo¥1,300 advance / ¥1,500 door (1-day); ¥2,000 advance / ¥2,500 door (2-day); elementary schoolers and younger free.
OfficialPast event© Simon Q · CC BY 2.0Sumo's summer tournament moves into Nagoya's brand-new IG Arena for the first time — fifteen days of top-division bouts in a gleaming 17,000-seat venue.
Sun, Jul 12, 2026 08:30 JST NagoyaTickets required. Arena chair seats start from about ¥3,500; ringside and box (masu) seats cost more. Buy via the official Japan Sumo Association ticket site.
JmtyPast event© pickle · via jmtyA free, all-ages pickleball gathering near Odo Station bringing students, staff and locals together to play and connect across generations.
Sun, Jul 12, 2026 10:00 JST KyotoFree
connpassPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A relaxed, beginner-welcome security meetup blending quiet self-study time with lightning talks—for anyone curious but intimidated by hardcore sessions.
Sun, Jul 12, 2026 13:00 JST TokyoFree
JmtyPast event© 小野精一郎 (@yuru_shougi) · via jmtyA laid-back Japanese-chess afternoon in central Yokohama—beginners welcome, with coaching, free matches and original puzzle cards over a drink.
Sun, Jul 12, 2026 13:00 JST Yokohama¥1,500 (includes one drink)
JmtyPast event© こまつな／江戸川ベースnappa · via jmtyA free, family-friendly Sunday gathering in Edogawa where kids and adults play, sing and connect across English and Japanese—no experience needed.
Sun, Jul 12, 2026 15:30 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© 663highland · CC BY 2.5A celebrated contemporary art festival scattered across the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, blending installations with fishing-village life.
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 09:00 JST Across JapanPassport tickets cover many sites; some works charge separately
OfficialPast event© PattayaPatrol · CC BY-SA 4.0Over 30,000 golden lanterns light the approach to Yasukuni Shrine across four summer nights, with Aomori nebuta floats and bon-odori dancing.
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Internet Archive Book Images · No restrictionsTwelve fan-shaped portable shrines representing the gods meet a procession of giant 50-kilogram flaming torches before Japan's tallest waterfall — one of the country's three great fire festivals.
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
MeetupPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Monthly gatherings for JavaScript, TypeScript and web developers in Tokyo, with bilingual talks and casual networking.
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© ちょちょじ · CC BY 3.0Fukuoka's adrenaline-fueled finale: teams race one-ton festival floats through the dawn streets of Hakata.
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:59 JST FukuokaFree
connpassPast event© RailsTokyo Team · via connpassA Ruby on Rails community meetup in Akihabara featuring a keynote on 'SRE for Rails Engineers,' sponsor talks, and networking.
Thu, Jul 16, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Corpse Reviver · CC BY 3.0Gion Matsuri 2026 runs all July at Kyoto's Yasaka Shrine. Saki Matsuri yoiyama is July 14-16 and the float parade is July 17 at 9:00; Ato Matsuri yoiyama is July 21-23 and the parade is July 24 at 9:30. Verified dates, times and access.
Fri, Jul 17, 2026 09:00 JSTFree
OfficialPast event© Corpse Reviver · CC BY 3.0Kyoto's grandest festival fills July with towering wooden floats, lantern-lit evening parties, and 1,100 years of tradition.
Fri, Jul 17, 2026 09:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© Σ64 · CC BY 3.0A four-day camping techno & house festival in the Fukushima highlands, running nonstop through the night since 2009.
Fri, Jul 17, 2026 13:00 JST Across Japan4-day full pass ~¥25,000; Under-25 ¥14,000; Tohoku-resident ¥15,000
OfficialPast event© Nissy-KITAQ · CC BY-SA 3.0Kokura Gion Daiko 2026 was held July 17-19 around Kokura Castle, Kitakyushu -- free entry, an estimated 300,000 visitors over the three days, 400 years of two-sided drumming. The 2027 dates are not yet announced.
Fri, Jul 17, 2026 18:00 JST FukuokaFree
connpassPast event© FlutterGakkai · via connpassAn offline Flutter developer meetup where speakers and listeners alike grow to love Flutter even more, with talks from active engineers.
Fri, Jul 17, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
MeetupPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A welcoming monthly meetup where indie game developers in Tokyo show works-in-progress and talk shop — in English.
Fri, Jul 17, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoSmall entry fee at the door (around 1,000 yen incl. a drink)
OfficialPast event© skyseeker · CC BY 2.0A pristine alpine valley in the Northern Japan Alps, with the Kappa Bridge, clear Azusa River and jagged peaks rising all around.
Sat, Jul 18, 2026 06:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Original: Mithun Kunwar
Derivative work: Radomianin · CC BY-SA 4.0Three seaside days of Nepal in Tokyo's Odaiba — momo and dal bhat, Himalayan crafts, folk dance and music against the bay, free to all.
Sat, Jul 18, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Tokyo's Brazilian Day festival returns July 18–19, 2026 at Yoyogi Park. Officially Festival Brasil & Latino Tokyo — free entry, samba parades, churrasco and live Latin music, dates and access verified.
Sat, Jul 18, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© JAWS-UG CDK支部 · via connpassThe 5th annual AWS Cloud Development Kit conference at Azabudai Hills, themed 'change'—how CDK evolves alongside AI coding agents.
Sat, Jul 18, 2026 12:30 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Matthide127 · CC0A summer seaside festival at Yamashita Park with parades, a lit-up boat procession and fireworks over Yokohama Bay.
Sat, Jul 18, 2026 16:00 JST YokohamaFree
JmtyPast event© Ami (oneman) · via jmtyAnime-themed sightseeing and a stamp rally around Ikebukuro, capped by an anisong party with food, drinks and a global crowd of fans.
Sun, Jul 19, 2026 14:30 JST TokyoFrom ¥1,000 (tour) / ¥2,000 incl. party
OfficialPast event© Globetrotter19 · CC BY-SA 3.0On the 21st of every month, nearly 1,000 stalls fill the grounds of UNESCO-listed Toji Temple with street food, antiques, pickles and crafts beneath its great pagoda.
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 08:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© 禁樹なずな · Public domainJapan's largest outdoor beer garden takes over Odori Park each summer, with rival breweries pouring ice-cold draft under the open sky.
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 12:00 JST SapporoFree
connpassPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Tokyo's Google Developer Group runs talks and workshops on Android, Cloud, AI and web — open to all and often bilingual.
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© VRChat.rb · via connpassA Rubyist gathering inside the metaverse—Ruby fans meet in VRChat to talk tech and socialize, held during Vket 2026 Summer Tech Week.
Tue, Jul 21, 2026 22:00 JSTFree
OfficialPast event© Christopher Johnson (globalite) on Flickr · CC BY-SA 2.0Japan's biggest outdoor music festival unfolds across a misty mountain ski resort, with global headliners on eleven forest stages.
Fri, Jul 24, 2026 09:00 JST Tokyo3-day pass approx. ¥60,000 / 1-day approx. ¥24,000
connpassPast event© Azure AI Developers Community(JP) · via connpassAI Dev Day 2026 was held on Friday, July 24, 2026 at Otemachi Place, Tokyo — a free in-person developer conference on production AI and agents. Registration closed full: 935 sign-ups across the conference and the evening reception. The connpass page is now marked closed.
Fri, Jul 24, 2026 09:30 JST TokyoConference free; +¥1,000 with networking
OfficialPast event© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0Otaru's biggest summer festival fills the port with the mass 'Shio Nerikomi' dance and a closing fireworks display.
Fri, Jul 24, 2026 11:00 JST SapporoFree
OfficialPast event© さかおり (talk) · CC BY-SA 3.0Around 600,000 sunflowers blaze across the Yatsugatake foothills, lit up after dark for a glowing field beneath the night sky.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 09:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Hasui Kawase · Public domainSado Island's 140th Kozan Matsuri (Jul 25-26) pairs a gold-mine shrine ritual with a town-wide Okesa dance through Aikawa and fireworks over the harbor.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0The 23rd Shinjuku Eisa Festival was held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, 13:00-20:00, free, on the streets around Shinjuku Station. Around 23 Okinawan eisa troupes drummed through both the east and west sides of the station. The 2027 date has not been announced yet.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 13:00 JST TokyoFree
connpassPast event© Jean-Pierre Dalbéra · CC BY 2.0Kyoto's Google Developer Group runs monthly study sessions and hackathons on Android, Flutter, AI/ML and Cloud.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 13:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© Mr.ちゅらさん · CC BY-SA 4.0Osaka's thousand-year river festival ends with a flotilla of lantern-lit boats and fireworks reflected on the Okawa River.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 15:00 JST OsakaFree
OfficialPast event© Chris 73 · CC BY-SA 3.0One of Japan's three great river festivals — lantern-laden 'makiwara' boats glide across the Tenno River by night.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 18:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialPast event© Adbh266 · CC BY-SA 4.0By night, daytime banner floats transform into 'lantern pyramids' — 12 tiers of 309 glowing lanterns swaying as bearers race them through Kitakyushu.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 18:30 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialPast event© 桜庭シェリー · CC BY-SA 3.0Tokyo's most storied summer fireworks show launches 20,000 shells over the Sumida River with Tokyo Skytree glowing behind.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Jovandavid · Public DomainThe 2026 Kanazawa Fireworks Festival (Hokkoku Hanabi) has finished — it was held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 19:50, with about 12,000 shells over the Saigawa River in central Kanazawa, free to watch. It ran for the third year as a Noto earthquake recovery-support edition. The 2027 date is not yet announced.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 19:50 JST KanazawaFree
OfficialPast event© Daniel Ramirez from Honolulu, USA · CC BY 2.0One of the Seto Inland Sea's largest displays — about 10,000 shells, including wide 10-go bursts, choreographed to music over Hiroshima Port.
Sat, Jul 25, 2026 20:00 JST HiroshimaFree
connpassPast event© Chris 73 · CC BY-SA 3.0Nagoya's Google Developer Group gathers Tokai-region engineers for talks on Google tech, AI, Android and the web.
Sun, Jul 26, 2026 13:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialPast event© UP BEAT! / UP BEAT SOUNDWORKS · 提供画像 (Provided by the organiser)UP BEAT!'s 24th-anniversary Sunset Boat Party sailed from Zou-no-hana Pier, Yokohama, on Jul 26, 2026, with guest DANTZ -- sunset to skyline, capacity limited (~180). The anniversary series concludes Aug 8, 2026 with The Gathering at BANK30, Tokyo.
Sun, Jul 26, 2026 18:30 JST YokohamaDoor ¥5,000 / advance ¥4,500 (separate one-drink charge); capacity limited (~180)
OfficialPast event© Chris 73 · CC BY-SA 3.0The 58th Toyota Oiden Festival has finished — the Oiden fireworks lit up the Yahagi River on July 26, 2026, after the Sohodori dance on July 25. It was the festival's last summer edition: from 2027 it moves to autumn, with the 59th planned for October 30-31, 2027.
Sun, Jul 26, 2026 19:00 JST NagoyaFree
connpassPast event© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0Hokkaido's broad, cross-stack engineering community runs hybrid meetups to help Sapporo's developers gather, grow and connect.
Tue, Jul 28, 2026 19:00 JST SapporoFree
connpassPast event© AI駆動開発勉強会 運営委員会 · via connpassTwo-day conference at Microsoft Japan exploring how generative AI and LLMs are reshaping software development, with speakers from major tech firms.
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoPaid (on-site); online free
connpassPast event© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0One of Japan's longest-running AWS user groups, with Osaka deep-dive talks, hands-on sessions and certification prep.
Thu, Jul 30, 2026 19:00 JST OsakaFree
OfficialPast event© VulcanSphere · CC BY 4.0The planet's biggest cosplay festival: teams from 40+ countries parade through Nagoya and battle for the World Cosplay Championship at Oasis 21.
Fri, Jul 31, 2026 10:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialPast event© Alan & Flora Botting · CC BY-SA 2.0Nagoya's quirky downtown district throws a lively summer festival with cosplay, world dance and a wet 'kara-okuri' parade.
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 10:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialPast event© Marho · CC BY-SA 4.0A Guinness-record wall of taiko drums thunders through Morioka as thousands of dancers chant 'Sakkora choiwayasse!'
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Rosino · CC BY-SA 2.0Hirosaki's own summer lantern parade (Aug 1–7, 2026) — fan-shaped floats and a calmer chant that set it apart from nearby Aomori Nebuta.
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 19:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A 700-metre 'Grand Niagara' cascade and Tokyo's largest shells light up the Arakawa, fired in tandem with Toda City across the water.
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 19:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A 1,000-shell opening burst in five seconds sets the tone for one of Tokyo's biggest riverside fireworks shows over the Edogawa.
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 19:15 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Raita Futo · CC BY 2.0The Hakodate Port Festival 2026 is over - it ran 1-5 August 2026. The festival is held on the same calendar dates every year, so the 2027 edition falls on Sunday 1 - Thursday 5 August 2027. Free to attend, 5 minutes' walk from JR Hakodate Station.
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 19:45 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© MaedaAkihiko · CC BY-SA 4.021,000 fireworks over Lake Shinji across two nights (Aug 1-2, 2026) -- one of western Japan's biggest lake firework shows, with a drone show opening night one.
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 20:00 JST Across JapanPaid reserved seating in 3 lakeside areas (Kohoku, Shirakata, Konan) went on sale June 6, 2026; free public viewing spots are also available around the lake.
OfficialPast event© Kazehayashi · CC BY-SA 4.0Billed as Japan's noisiest festival: dozens of lantern-lit festival cars thunder through Kuwana to a relentless din of drums and gongs deep into the night.
Sun, Aug 2, 2026 18:30 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialPast event© Fisherman · CC BY-SA 3.0Aomori Nebuta 2026 reserved viewing seats: ¥4,000 prices, the 2026 sale dates (lottery + Jun 27 first-come), how to buy, and access from Tokyo.
Sun, Aug 2, 2026 19:00 JST Across JapanReserved viewing seat ¥4,000 (Aug 7 daytime + fireworks set ¥9,500); handling fee added
OfficialPast event© MIKI Yoshihito · CC BY 2.0How to buy paid grandstand seats at Japan's summer matsuri in 2026: lottery vs first-come, prices, the on-sale calendar and the official links.
Sun, Aug 2, 2026 19:00 JSTPaid grandstand seats from ¥1,000 (varies by festival and tier)
OfficialPast event© Fisherman · CC BY-SA 3.0Giant illuminated warrior floats are paraded through Aomori nightly as chanting dancers leap alongside in a blaze of color.
Sun, Aug 2, 2026 19:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Cp9asngf · CC BY-SA 3.0Nagaoka's 2026 reserved seats sold out June 17 — the official resale opens July 6 (Japan residents only). Here's the resale route, the unauthorized-resale warning, and where you can still watch for free.
Sun, Aug 2, 2026 19:20 JST Across JapanReserved seats sold out; official resale only (Japan residents), approx. ¥1,000-¥48,000 face value by tier
OfficialPast event© Cp9asngf · CC BY-SA 3.0One of Japan's three great fireworks festivals, famed for the colossal 'Phoenix' shells fired across the Shinano River as a prayer for peace.
Sun, Aug 2, 2026 19:20 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© 掬茶 · CC BY-SA 4.0Akita's Kanto Matsuri lights up Kanto Odori with about 280 bamboo poles and 10,000 lanterns, balanced on foreheads, hips and palms like glowing rice sheaves.
Mon, Aug 3, 2026 18:45 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© hildgrim · CC BY-SA 2.0Performers balance towering bamboo poles strung with dozens of glowing lanterns on their palms, foreheads and shoulders.
Mon, Aug 3, 2026 18:50 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© No machine-readable author provided. Crown of Lenten rose assumed (based on copy · Public domainSome 10,000 dancers twirl flower-adorned straw hats to the rhythmic cry of 'Yassho, makasho!' in one of Tohoku's biggest parades.
Wed, Aug 5, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© かるちる · CC0On summer nights, 20,000 candles flicker across Nara Park's historic grounds in a serene sea of gentle light.
Wed, Aug 5, 2026 19:00 JST NaraFree
OfficialPast event© 掬茶 · CC BY-SA 4.0Sendai Tanabata Festival 2026 (Aug 6–8): the fixed dates, the giant paper streamers, the Aug 5 fireworks, 5-min access from Sendai Station, and what to see.
Thu, Aug 6, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Nesnad · CC BY 3.0Japan's grandest star festival drapes Sendai's arcades in thousands of giant, handmade paper streamers.
Thu, Aug 6, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Lonely Planet Japan · CC BY-SA 4.0Around 12,000 fireworks reflect off Japan's largest lake near Otsu in a 40th-anniversary show fused with drones and lasers.
Thu, Aug 6, 2026 19:30 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Asagaya Tanabata Festival 2026 runs Aug 7–11, free, rain or shine. Tokyo's arcade tanabata is famous for giant handmade papier-mâché figures of the year's characters, right by JR Asagaya Station.
Fri, Aug 7, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© m-sasaki · CC BY 4.0Fukushima Waraji Matsuri 2026 (Aug 7–9) parades a 12m, 2-ton straw sandal past the station before offering it to Haguro Shrine.
Fri, Aug 7, 2026 18:30 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© DAI-nk · CC BY-SA 3.0Niigata Matsuri 2026 runs Aug 7–9: a 15,000-dancer folk parade on the 7th, then a Shinano River fireworks finale on the 9th.
Fri, Aug 7, 2026 19:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© UP BEAT! / UP BEAT SOUNDWORKS · 提供画像 (Provided by the organiser)UP BEAT!'s 24th-anniversary finale, The Gathering, fills bayside BANK30 in Tokyo on Aug 8, 2026 — afternoon to night, guests Tomoyuki Tanaka (FPM) & Kentaro Takizawa. Door ¥3,500 / U-23 ¥2,000.
Sat, Aug 8, 2026 15:00 JST TokyoDoor ¥3,500 / U-23 ¥2,000 (advance tickets available; open 15:00)
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Ten thousand fireworks burst over central Tokyo synced to a live concert lineup, a rare downtown display you can pair with a stadium seat.
Sat, Aug 8, 2026 19:30 JST TokyoFree to glimpse from afar; the official stadium viewing-and-concert tickets are paid.
OfficialPast event© Kounosu · CC BY-SA 3.0Yosakoi Festival 2026 (Aug 9–12, Kochi): Otesuji grandstand seat prices, the 2026 sale dates (general sale opens Jun 29), how to buy, and how to get there.
Sun, Aug 9, 2026 13:15 JST Across JapanPaid grandstand seats ¥1,000–¥3,000 per session (group/parasol tables ¥15,000–¥50,000)
OfficialPast event© Midori (Wikimedia user) · CC BY-SA 3.0The original yosakoi: 200+ teams and ~18,000 dancers with naruko clappers thunder through Kochi's streets across four August days.
Sun, Aug 9, 2026 17:00 JST Across JapanFree to watch on the streets; paid reserved (shaded) seats sold for the main venues.
OfficialPast event© Kounosu · CC BY-SA 3.0Awa Odori 2026 (Aug 12–15, Tokushima): grandstand seat prices, the 2026 on-sale dates, how to buy via Ticket Pia, and how to get there.
Wed, Aug 12, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanReserved grandstand ¥1,000 (C) – ¥3,000 (S); Minami-uchimachi SS ¥6,000 / Special ¥15,000
OfficialPast event© Rosino · CC BY-SA 2.0Japan's most famous dance festival: 100,000 dancers and a million spectators fill Tokushima with rhythm every August.
Wed, Aug 12, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© KASEI · CC BY-SA 3.0Tottori's Guinness-record umbrella dance returns Aug 13–14, 2026 for its 62nd edition — free to watch along the city-center parade route.
Thu, Aug 13, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Marho · CC BY-SA 4.0Gujo Odori 2026's all-night Tetsuya Odori runs over Obon, Aug 13-16, from 8 pm to 4-5 am. The stage is the old castle town of Gujo-Hachiman in Gifu, about a 20-min walk from Gujo-Hachiman Station. Verified dates, venue and access for first-timers.
Thu, Aug 13, 2026 20:00 JSTFree
OfficialPast event© Zairon · CC BY 4.0Three thousand bronze and stone lanterns are lit across ancient Kasuga Taisha, filling the shrine's forest paths with a soft golden glow.
Fri, Aug 14, 2026 19:00 JST NaraSmall fee to enter the inner lantern corridors
OfficialPast event© LuxTonnerre · CC BY 2.0Tokyo's blockbuster urban festival packs international pop, rock and electronic stars into a stadium-and-convention-hall mega-event by the bay.
Sat, Aug 15, 2026 10:00 JST Tokyo1-day ticket approx. ¥20,000
OfficialPast event© Taichi · CC BY-SA 3.0The world's largest fan convention: hundreds of thousands gather at Tokyo Big Sight to buy doujinshi and cosplay.
Sat, Aug 15, 2026 10:30 JST TokyoWristband entry: ¥1,210 for morning entry (from 10:30) or ¥440 in advance / ¥1,000 same-day for afternoon entry (from 12:30). Lottery-only Early Entry (¥5,385) and cosplay changing-room priority (¥3,385) tickets are sold via TicketPay.
OfficialPast event© Degueulasse · CC BY-SA 3.0Todaiji admission is ¥800 adult / ¥400 child; hours run 7:30–17:30 Apr–Oct (8:00–17:00 Nov–Mar, as of July 2026). This page also covers the Aug 15, 2026 Manto Kuyoe evening, when thousands of lanterns light the Great Buddha Hall and the Kannomado window opens so the Buddha's face is visible from outside.
Sat, Aug 15, 2026 19:00 JST NaraThe Manto Kuyoe evening service itself is a religious observance and is generally viewed from the precinct; on ordinary days, Daibutsuden admission is ¥800 adult / ¥400 child, or a joint Daibutsuden + Todaiji Museum pass ¥1,200 adult / ¥600 child (as of July 2026). Confirm any special-evening entry arrangements on the official site.
OfficialPast event© Cobalt Fox · Public DomainAround 40,000 fireworks erupt over Lake Suwa, their booms echoing off the surrounding mountains in one of central Japan's most spectacular summer displays.
Sat, Aug 15, 2026 19:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© American Art Association;
Millet, Francis Davis, 1846-1912 · No restrictionsOne of Edo's three great festivals returns to its full triennial form in 2026, with 50+ mikoshi paraded as spectators drench bearers in purifying water.
Sun, Aug 16, 2026 07:30 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© New Zealand Government, Office of the Governor-General · CC BY 4.0Thousands of memorial lanterns drift down the Oi River below Arashiyama as the 'Torii-gata' bonfire of the Gozan Okuribi blazes on the hillside above.
Sun, Aug 16, 2026 19:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© 掬茶 · CC BY-SA 4.0Masked dancers in black hikosa-zukin hoods and deep amigasa hats sway through torchlit streets at one of Japan's three great Bon Odori, 700+ years old.
Sun, Aug 16, 2026 19:30 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© MIKI Yoshihito from Sapporo City, Hokkaido, Japan · CC BY 2.0A thousand women dance through summer night with golden paper lanterns glowing on their heads — Kumamoto's most ethereal festival.
Sun, Aug 16, 2026 20:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© ja:User:Kyoto-u · CC BY 2.5Giant kanji and shapes blaze on five mountains around Kyoto to send ancestral spirits home at the close of Obon.
Sun, Aug 16, 2026 20:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialPast event© Marco Tambara · CC BY-SA 3.0World-famous taiko ensemble Kodo hosts a three-day island arts festival with thunderous harbour-side concerts under the stars.
Fri, Aug 21, 2026 17:00 JST Across JapanHarbour Concert tickets approx. ¥5,000–7,000 each; fringe events free
OfficialPast event© Akinori Takemoto · CC BY-SA 4.0Roughly 15,000 shells light up the Karasugawa River in under an hour -- the fast, dense fireworks night that opens Gunma's biggest annual festival.
Sat, Aug 22, 2026 19:30 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Internet Archive Book Images · No restrictionsOne of Japan's biggest tropical-fish and aquatic-life markets fills an Asakusa hall with around 200 specialist booths.
Sun, Aug 23, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPaid admission (check the official site for the current ticket price).
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0COMITIA 157 was held on Sunday 23 August 2026 at Tokyo Big Sight and has ended. The next edition is **COMITIA 158 on Sunday 13 December 2026, in Tokyo Big Sight East Halls 1, 2, 3, 7 and 8**. After that, 159 falls on 14 March 2027 and 160 on 23 May 2027.
Sun, Aug 23, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoThe catalog (Tia's Magazine 157) is your entry pass: ¥1,400 in bookshops in advance, ¥1,500 at the venue. Free for under-12s, and free entry for everyone after 15:00. (Organiser's figures, as of 16 August 2026.)
OfficialPast event© Katsutoshi Misawa (克年 三沢) · CC BY 2.0Twenty towering yatai floats - hand-built from scratch every year and dressed as scenes from kabuki and legend - parade the streets of Shinjo each August 24-26. This 260-plus-year-old UNESCO-listed float festival reaches a milestone in 2026: its 270th staging.
Mon, Aug 24, 2026 15:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Marc Antomattei · CC BY-SA 4.0A rapid-fire summer fireworks night lights up Minato Mirai 21 over Rinko Park and the Yokohama waterfront.
Mon, Aug 24, 2026 18:30 JST YokohamaFree
OfficialPast event© Sakaori (talk) · CC BY-SA 3.0To mark the close of Mt. Fuji's climbing season, around seventy three-meter torches blaze along the streets of Fujiyoshida — counted among Japan's three most unusual festivals.
Wed, Aug 26, 2026 15:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Kyu3 · CC BY-SA 4.0Nagoya's huge late-summer dance festival fills the city center with hundreds of energetic teams in a riot of color and choreography.
Fri, Aug 28, 2026 11:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialPast event© Tet · CC BY 4.0Okinawa's biggest eisa festival, where drum troupes from across the islands perform thunderous traditional dance under summer skies.
Fri, Aug 28, 2026 15:00 JST OkinawaFree
OfficialPast event© Prosperosity · CC BY-SA 3.0Noboribetsu's hot-spring Hell Festival returns Aug 29-30, 2026: a giant demon float, the 1-ton Oni Mikoshi, mass demon-dancing and fireworks -- free to attend.
Sat, Aug 29, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Degueulasse · CC BY-SA 3.0Nara's energetic summer counterpoint — vivid street-dance teams parade past Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha and Sanjo-dori.
Sat, Aug 29, 2026 11:00 JST NaraFree
OfficialPast event© Frankie Fouganthin · CC BY-SA 4.0Tokyo's biggest samba parade fills Asakusa with feathered dancers and thundering bateria as competing teams vie for the championship along Umamichi Street.
Sat, Aug 29, 2026 13:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Marufish from Alor Setar, Malaysia · CC BY-SA 2.0Tokyo's own Awa dance takes over Koenji's backstreets as 10,000-plus dancers in 'ren' troupes whirl through the summer night.
Sat, Aug 29, 2026 17:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© Drivephotographer · CC0Japan's most prestigious pyrotechnic competition, where the nation's top fireworks artisans battle for the Prime Minister's Award.
Sat, Aug 29, 2026 17:10 JST Across JapanReserved seating required for prime spots (paid); riverbank viewing free
OfficialPast event© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan's only major summer full marathon starts and finishes at Odori Park, using stretches of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic route.
Sun, Aug 30, 2026 08:30 JST SapporoSpectating free; runner entry opens in late March 2026.
OfficialOn now© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0A three-week harvest food festival in Odori Park celebrating Hokkaido's bounty — fresh seafood, ramen, sweets, wine and local produce.
Until Wed, Sep 30, 2026 20:30 JST SapporoFree
OfficialOn now© Steve Cadman · CC BY-SA 2.0Aki Basho 2026 runs Sep 13–27 at Ryogoku Kokugikan. Tickets go on sale Aug 8 — seat prices and how overseas fans can book, explained.
Until Sun, Sep 27, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoTickets required. Arena chair seats start from around ¥3,000; traditional box (masu) seats and ringside cost more. Purchase through the official Japan Sumo Association site.
OfficialOn now© ELLusKa 86 · Public domainDisney Halloween 2026 runs Sept 16 (Wed)–Oct 31 (Sat) at both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea — the dates are official. Full costumes are allowed only Sept 15–30 and Oct 16–31 (not Oct 1–15). Dates, costume rules and ticket tips below.
Until Sat, Oct 31, 2026 21:00 JST TokyoRequires a park ticket (1-day from around 7,900 yen, varies by date); all Halloween entertainment is included.
OfficialOn now© Nesnad · CC BY 4.0Japan's largest Indian festival fills Yoyogi Park with curry stalls, chai, sari shops, Bollywood dance and classical music — a two-day plunge into India in the heart of Tokyo.
Until Sun, Sep 27, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialOn now© tenaciousme from Toronto, Canada · CC BY 2.0The beachside successor to TAICOCLUB — a genre-spanning electronic festival in front of Izu's Shirahama Beach.
Until Sun, Sep 27, 2026 22:00 JST Across JapanTickets ¥16,000–22,000; Under-23 ¥13,000 (accommodation separate)
OfficialOn now© 663highland · CC BY 2.5Matsue's castle and canals glow with lanterns every weekend from Sept 26-Oct 18, 2026, 18:00-21:00 -- a quiet, romantic alternative to Japan's big-city illuminations.
Until Sun, Oct 18, 2026 21:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© さかおり · CC BY-SA 4.0By lantern light, faceless dancers in straw hats move with hushed grace to mournful kokyu strings through old Yatsuo's stone lanes.
Tue, Sep 1, 2026 17:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Chainwit. · CC BY-SA 4.0Japan's oldest kabuki theatre in Kyoto stages a modern crossover, fusing the world of kabuki with the famous anime master-thief Lupin III. A playful, fast-paced gateway into the art form, with English audio guides available.
Wed, Sep 2, 2026 11:00 JST KyotoTickets vary by seat class; check the official site. English audio guide available for rental.
OfficialPast event© Licht Philharmonic Project · © Midori Komai Orchestra Project (official promotional photo, used with permission)Pioneering woman conductor Midori Komai gives her farewell concert on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Kyowa Wing Hakuba Cultural Hall in Nagano — a one-time-only Hakuba Philharmonic Orchestra playing Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 and other European favourites. Doors 14:00, performance 15:00–17:00. Advance tickets ¥4,500 (students ¥2,000; under-12 free).
Sat, Sep 5, 2026 15:00 JST Across JapanAdvance ¥4,500 / same-day ¥5,000. Nagano residents ¥3,500; junior- and senior-high students ¥2,000; elementary-age and younger free (a free seat ticket is required if the child uses a seat). Post-event archive streaming is also sold on teket (as of 2026-07-21; confirm current details before buying).
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0A quirky Tokyo street festival born from a comic rakugo tale, where charcoal-grilled Pacific saury is served with sudachi citrus to long, happy queues.
Sun, Sep 6, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialPast event© 掬茶 (Kikucha) · CC BY-SA 4.0Every September 7-9, the samurai town of Kakunodate fills with towering yama floats carrying warrior dolls by day; after dark comes the yamabuttsuke, when two floats that refuse to yield are rammed together in a thunderous, adrenaline-charged test of nerve.
Mon, Sep 7, 2026 09:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan's Munich-recognised Oktoberfest brings genuine German breweries, Bavarian food and oompah bands to Shiba Park beneath Tokyo Tower.
Fri, Sep 11, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoPaid: entry plus a refundable glass deposit; food and beer charged on site.
OfficialPast event© Cobalt Fox · Public DomainThe birthplace of the giant 'sanshakudama', this Niigata shrine festival fires the world's largest fireworks shell — a four-shaku, 800kg behemoth.
Fri, Sep 11, 2026 19:30 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Shizhao · CC BY-SA 2.5Vietnam Festa in Kanagawa 2026 (Sep 12–13, Yokohama): pho, ao dai shows and water puppets on the bayfront, free — verified dates, venue and access.
Sat, Sep 12, 2026 10:00 JST YokohamaFree
OfficialPast event© そらみみ (Wikimedia Commons) · CC BY-SA 4.0Hojoya runs 12-18 September 2026 - seven days and seven nights at Hakozakigu Shrine in Fukuoka, with several hundred stalls along the approach and around a million visitors. Free to enter.
Sat, Sep 12, 2026 10:00 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialPast event© N509FZ · CC BY-SA 4.0The city's foreigner-friendly hub runs welcome events, language exchange salons, homestay visits and 'warm fellowship' gatherings where locals and internationals mingle.
Sat, Sep 12, 2026 13:00 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialPast event© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0Kitakyushu's biggest summer festival sends massive 'Wasshoi' dance parades and mikoshi through Kokura, capped by fireworks.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 09:00 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialPast event© Kounosu · CC BY-SA 3.0Teams haul massive wooden festival floats at full sprint through Kishiwada's streets in one of Japan's most thrilling matsuri.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 06:00 JST OsakaFree
OfficialPast event© Umako · Public domainSome 600 people parade in full samurai costume through Aizuwakamatsu in a 'Lord's Procession' honouring the clan that made a famous last stand in Japan's last civil war.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© inf_supTJ · Public domainAsia's biggest video-game expo celebrates its 30th edition with hands-on demos, cosplay and a record five-day run at Makuhari Messe.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPublic-day ticket approx. ¥2,000–3,000 (advance)
OfficialPast event© RuinDig/Yuki Uchida · CC BY 4.0Asia's biggest gaming expo at Makuhari Messe, with hands-on demos of upcoming titles, cosplay and the latest hardware.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPublic-day tickets sold in advance; business days are trade-only
OfficialPast event© Jovandavid · Public DomainKanazawa Jazz Street 2026 runs 19-21 September, with a reception live on the 18th: 200-plus mostly free street sets across about 20 spots in central Kanazawa, plus ticketed special concerts.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 11:00 JST KanazawaFree street performances; paid special concerts vary.
OfficialPast event© hildgrim · CC BY-SA 2.0The country's largest all-Japanese-artist rock festival fills a Chiba seaside park with 115 acts across five summer days.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 11:45 JST Tokyo1-day ¥16,000 / 5-day pass ¥55,000
OfficialPast event© ヒタチギ · CC BY-SA 4.0Chiba's biggest street festival draws up to 800,000 visitors -- and in 2026 it moves from its traditional late-July weekend to September 19-20 because of record summer heat.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 13:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© Martin Lewison · CC BY-SA 2.0Japan's flagship EDM festival turns Odaiba's waterfront into a two-night blaze of world-class DJs, lasers and pyrotechnics.
Sat, Sep 19, 2026 14:00 JST Tokyo2-day pass approx. ¥30,000
OfficialPast event© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0Kumamoto's biggest autumn festival runs Sept 20-21, 2026: about 60 decorated parade horses and a twice-daily armored procession fill the streets, free to watch.
Sun, Sep 20, 2026 06:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialPast event© DimiTalen · CC0A biennial festival in the ancient capital, founded under Cannes-winning director Naomi Kawase, championing first- and second-time filmmakers across screenings set among Nara's temples and parks.
Sun, Sep 20, 2026 10:00 JST NaraScreening tickets typically around 1,000-1,500 yen; some free outdoor and community programs.
OfficialPast event© Vassil · CC0Japan's biggest reptile and exotic-animal expo packs Tokyo Big Sight with geckos, snakes, frogs and the breeders who love them.
Sun, Sep 20, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoAdults ¥1,400 advance / ¥1,600 door; elementary ¥700 advance / ¥800 door; preschoolers free.
OfficialPast event© Judgefloro · CC BY-SA 4.0Pet Haku Osaka 2026 runs Sep 21-23 at Intex Osaka. Ticket prices (advance vs door) and the exact rules for bringing your own pet, explained.
Mon, Sep 21, 2026 10:00 JST OsakaAdults (junior-high+) ¥1,300 advance / ¥1,500 door; children (age 4-elementary) ¥700 advance / ¥800 door.
OfficialThis weekend© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0Around 100 fishing boats escort three deities' mikoshi across the sea at this World Heritage shrine's grand autumn festival.
Thu, Oct 1, 2026 09:00 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialThis weekend© Ben P L from Provo, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0The Ueno Park edition of the free Caribbean-Latin street fair — Latin food, mojitos, salsa and reggae beside the fountain plaza in one of Tokyo's most famous parks.
Sat, Oct 3, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialThis weekend© Nihonmatsuri · CC BY 4.0Seven towering floats, each carrying 300+ glowing red lanterns, parade through Fukushima nights to the beat of taiko in one of Japan's three great lantern festivals.
Sat, Oct 3, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Marine-Blue · CC BY-SA 3.0A 380-year-old shrine festival blending Japanese, Chinese and Dutch flair — spinning dragon dances, whirling umbrella floats and roaring 'Motte-koi' chants.
Wed, Oct 7, 2026 07:00 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialUpcoming© 663highland · CC BY-SA 3.0Marimo Festival 2026 runs 8–10 October at Lake Akan, Hokkaido. Every ceremony is free to watch: Ainu elders open with kamuinomi prayers, a torchlit parade winds along the lake on the second night, and on the final morning the marimo are carried by dugout canoe back into the water — a rite held every year since 1950 to protect a Special Natural Monument.
Thu, Oct 8, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Henxter · CC BY-SA 4.0UNESCO-listed Belgian beer culture lands in front of Kyoto's Higashi-Honganji temple — dozens of imported brews, frites, waffles and live music in an open-air city festival.
Thu, Oct 8, 2026 12:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialUpcoming© z tanuki · CC BY 3.0Eleven gilded Edo-era floats parade through old Takayama by day, then glow with 100+ lanterns at dusk in one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals.
Fri, Oct 9, 2026 09:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialUpcoming© katorisi · CC BY 3.0Fourteen giant wooden floats, each topped by a towering doll of a legendary hero, are hauled through the canal-side 'Little Edo' streets of Sawara to lilting Sawara-bayashi music every autumn - October 9-11 in 2026 - in one of the Kanto region's three great float festivals, just a day-trip from Tokyo.
Fri, Oct 9, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Kanchi1979 · CC BY-SA 4.0Konpira-san's biggest festival (Oct 9-11, 2026): once a year the mountain deity 'comes down' -- a ~600-strong procession carries the mikoshi 2km through Kotohira by torchlight.
Fri, Oct 9, 2026 16:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Internet Archive Book Images · No restrictionsSome 33,000 round kochia bushes turn Miharashi Hill a blazing crimson each October, a fluffy red carpet rolling toward the Pacific Ocean.
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 09:30 JST Across JapanAdults (high-school+) from ¥450; price rises during peak kochia season
OfficialUpcoming© Jason M. C., Han · CC BY-SA 4.0World Festa Yokohama is a free food-and-culture fair at Yamashita Park - 50-plus world-cuisine stalls and stage acts. Yokohama listings put 2026 on 10-11 October; the organiser had not posted dates as of 4 Sep 2026.
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 10:00 JST YokohamaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Base64 · CC BY-SA 3.0Nagoya's biggest autumn party crowns Oda Nobunaga, Hideyoshi and Ieyasu in armor, leading a 600-strong procession from the station to Nagoya Castle.
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 10:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialUpcoming© OS6 · CC BY-SA 3.0Saijo Sake Festival 2026 runs October 10–11 in Hiroshima's sake capital — Japan's largest sake-tasting event. Confirmed dates, 2025 reference ticket price, and access below.
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 10:00 JST HiroshimaFestival free to enter; the 'Sake Plaza' tasting pass is paid
OfficialUpcoming© photo: Qurren (talk) Taken with Canon PowerShot G9 X · CC BY-SA 3.0One of the world's most respected boutique raves — a Funktion-One sound system in the Gunma mountains, lineup kept secret.
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 12:00 JST Across Japan~¥23,000 (Under-28) to ¥29,000; includes camping
OfficialUpcoming© Okimoto · Public DomainJoin thousands pulling the world's largest straw rope through Naha in this Guinness-record Okinawan autumn festival.
Sun, Oct 11, 2026 11:00 JST OkinawaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Yuet Man Lee · CC BY-SA 4.0Tens of thousands grab a Guinness-record 200m rope and heave for 30 minutes in the middle of Naha's main road — Okinawa's most thunderous autumn spectacle.
Sun, Oct 11, 2026 14:30 JST OkinawaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Comyu · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan's premier tech expo, where AI, robotics, mobility and IoT from hundreds of companies and startups go hands-on under one roof.
Tue, Oct 13, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Midori (Wikimedia user) · CC BY-SA 3.0Three portable shrines are violently crashed together as seven ornate floats clash in Japan's most famous 'fighting festival.'
Wed, Oct 14, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Midori (Wikimedia user) · CC BY-SA 3.0Fifty-four golden, 5.5-metre taiko-dai floats are hoisted by 150-strong crews in one of Shikoku's three great festivals.
Fri, Oct 16, 2026 08:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Subramaniam K V · CC BY 3.0Walk ancient moss-covered pilgrimage paths through the forested Kii Mountains to sacred Kumano shrines, a UNESCO World Heritage route.
Sat, Oct 17, 2026 08:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© KQuhen · CC BY-SA 4.0Tacos, jerk chicken and mojitos meet salsa and reggae rhythms — a free, sun-soaked open-air fair celebrating Caribbean and Latin American culture along Yoyogi Park's avenue.
Sat, Oct 17, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© 三塚 · CC BY-SA 4.0In Tokyo's 'Little Edo', towering tiered floats with revolving dolls roll past kurazukuri warehouses and clash in 'Hikkawase' flute-and-drum face-offs.
Sat, Oct 17, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Raita Futo · CC BY 2.0ELLEGARDEN, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, and Sambomaster headline a headland-side music festival on Miyako Island, Okinawa on October 17, 2026.
Sat, Oct 17, 2026 11:00 JST OkinawaAdvance ¥9,000 / Door ¥10,000 (day-of sales only if not sold out) / Miyako Island resident student ticket ¥4,000 / children under elementary-school age free (up to 3 per guardian)
OfficialUpcoming© Lance Cpl. David Hersey · Public domainJapan's biggest analog-game fair, where thousands of indie board, card and tabletop creators sell and demo their games over one weekend.
Sat, Oct 17, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoAround ¥1,500 advance / ¥2,000 same-day (2026 reference; autumn fees TBA); elementary schoolers and younger free.
OfficialUpcoming© Miyuki Meinaka · CC BY-SA 4.0Over 5 million LEDs transform the park into a glowing garden — a luminous wisteria tunnel, a great wisteria of light and reflective ponds rank it among Japan's top three illuminations.
Sat, Oct 17, 2026 15:30 JST TokyoEvening admission around ¥1,400 (varies by light stage).
OfficialUpcoming© Christophe Robin · CC BY-SA 2.0The hairpin Irohazaka road climbs through a moving gradient of red and gold to Lake Chuzenji, where the 97-m Kegon Falls plunges past blazing maples.
Sun, Oct 18, 2026 08:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Corpse Reviver · CC BY-SA 3.0A 2-km parade of 2,000 people in meticulously accurate costumes marches through 1,000 years of Kyoto history, from Heian nobles to Meiji revolutionaries.
Thu, Oct 22, 2026 12:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialUpcoming© ja:User:Si-take. · CC BY-SA 3.0Men in loincloths haul flaming 80-kg torches through a mountain village after dark in one of Kyoto's wildest, most primal night festivals.
Thu, Oct 22, 2026 18:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialUpcoming© そらみみ · CC BY-SA 4.0Hakata Okunchi 2026 (Oct 23–24) is Kushida Shrine's free autumn festival in Fukuoka — a 1,200-year harvest rite, famous for the Oct 24 ox-cart procession. Dates, schedule, access.
Fri, Oct 23, 2026 10:00 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialUpcoming© zannaland · CC BY-SA 2.0A laid-back eco-minded community fair in Yoyogi Park — organic food, world music, crafts and a mellow forest atmosphere that draws Tokyo's international and creative crowd.
Sat, Oct 24, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Midori (Wikimedia user) · CC BY-SA 3.0One of Japan's three great 'fighting' festivals, where teams ram a giant drum-float and mikoshi together to a thundering 'ton-ten-ton' beat.
Sat, Oct 24, 2026 10:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© EllieBellie25 · CC BY-SA 4.0Hiroshima's biggest autumn food fair fills the grounds of Hiroshima Castle with okonomiyaki, oysters, lemons and gourmet stalls from every corner of the prefecture.
Sat, Oct 24, 2026 10:00 JST HiroshimaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Solomon203 · CC BY-SA 4.0Japan's largest cosplay event transforms Ikebukuro's Sunshine City into a sea of 20,000+ costumed fans, with stages, parades and city-wide photo spots.
Sat, Oct 24, 2026 16:30 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Marc Antomattei · CC BY-SA 4.0Yokohama's flagship full marathon starts at Landmark Tower and is the only domestic race that runs on the Bay Expressway.
Sun, Oct 25, 2026 08:30 JST YokohamaFull marathon entry from around ¥18,500; spectating is free.
OfficialUpcoming© Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan · CC BY 2.0Asia's premier competitive film festival returns for its 39th edition, taking over the Hibiya–Yurakucho–Ginza district with world premieres, red carpets and onstage Q&As with directors and stars.
Mon, Oct 26, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoIndividual screening tickets typically around 1,500-2,000 yen; some open-air and free programs.
OfficialUpcoming© Pekachu · CC BY-SA 4.0**The Saga International Balloon Fiesta 2026 runs Oct 30–Nov 3, 2026 on the banks of the Kase River in eastern Saga City, and it's completely free to watch.** Asia's largest sky-sports event fills the Kyushu sky with 100+ hot-air balloons, drawing over 800,000 visitors across five days.
Fri, Oct 30, 2026 06:30 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Shisma · CC BY 4.0Tokyo Ramen Festa 2026 runs for five days, October 30 (Fri) to November 3 (Tue, holiday), at Komazawa Olympic Park's Central Plaza in Tokyo. Entry is free; ramen costs ¥1,100 (tax incl.) per bowl, paid by ticket.
Fri, Oct 30, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Kanda Curry Grand Prix 2026 (the 14th final) runs Saturday Oct 31 and Sunday Nov 1, 2026 at Ogawa Hiroba, Kanda, Tokyo. The organizer's official site now lists the venue, curry hours (Oct 31 11:00–19:00, Nov 1 11:00–17:00) and the voting deadline (Nov 1, 16:00), still marked 開催予定 (planned) — checked 13 September 2026. Free entry; curry sold per dish. Shop list not yet announced.
Sat, Oct 31, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Nicolas1981 · CC BY-SA 3.0An all-night art festival turns Roppongi into an open-air gallery, with installations, performances and museums glowing from dusk till dawn.
Sat, Oct 31, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Cobalt Fox · Public DomainOne of the Kanto region's largest illuminations blankets a hillside German-themed park in millions of lights, best seen from its observation wheel.
Sat, Oct 31, 2026 16:00 JST Across JapanPaid: adults ¥1,500, children (age 4–elementary) ¥800; parking from ¥1,000.
OfficialUpcoming© Benh LIEU SONG · CC BY-SA 2.0No official 2026 Halloween announcement from Shibuya City yet (as of July 2026) — details usually land in early October. Confirmed now: a year-round street-drinking ban (6PM–5AM) has covered Shibuya Station since Oct 2024, and 2023–2025 saw escalating crowd-control measures.
Sat, Oct 31, 2026 18:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Dariusz Jemielniak · CC BY-SA 3.0Three costumed demons roam the streets of hillside Onomichi, tapping children with sticks to bring them good health.
Sun, Nov 1, 2026 09:00 JST HiroshimaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Shubert Ciencia · CC BY 2.0Over 4,000 maples of 11 varieties set Aichi's Korankei gorge ablaze in crimson, with evening light-ups reflecting on the Tomoe River until 9 p.m.
Sun, Nov 1, 2026 09:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Joi (Joi Ito) · CC BY 2.0Kyoto's only autumn geisha dance, staged by the geiko and maiko of the Gion Higashi district. Ten days of elegant kyomai dance under lanterns, accompanied by live shamisen and song — a refined seasonal highlight of Kyoto.
Sun, Nov 1, 2026 13:30 JST Kyoto¥6,000 (viewing only); ¥7,000 with a tea ceremony. Two shows daily at 13:30 and 16:00.
OfficialUpcoming© Jorge Láscar from Australia · CC BY 2.0Japan's largest illumination floods a European-style canal town with millions of lights every night of the year across this Nagasaki resort.
Sun, Nov 1, 2026 17:00 JST Across JapanPark admission ticket required (varies by plan)
OfficialUpcoming© Sanjo · CC BY-SA 4.0The original Kagoshima Ohara Matsuri (Nov 2–3, 2026) fills Tenmonkan with 16,500+ dancers — not to be confused with Tokyo's May Shibuya version.
Mon, Nov 2, 2026 18:50 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Pekachu · CC BY-SA 4.0Fourteen colossal lacquered floats — golden lions, samurai helmets and dragons up to 7 m tall — are dragged through town and onto a beach where they sink in sand.
Mon, Nov 2, 2026 19:30 JST FukuokaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0Osaka's grand boulevard glows for winter as kilometres of ginkgo trees light up from Umeda to Namba in a record-setting display.
Tue, Nov 3, 2026 17:00 JST OsakaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Yoshiyuki Ito · CC BY-SA 3.0At Tokyo's National Noh Theatre, watch the 650-year-old art of noh and its comic counterpart kyogen, including a piece performed by celebrated kyogen master Nomura Mansai. English subtitles appear on screens built into the seatbacks.
Fri, Nov 6, 2026 18:30 JST TokyoFront-stage ¥5,800 / Side-stage ¥4,000 (students ¥2,800) / Middle-stage ¥3,500 (students ¥2,500).
OfficialUpcoming© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0The Yaeyama Islands' biggest festival fills central Ishigaki with a citizens' parade, island music and a closing fireworks display over the harbour town.
Sat, Nov 7, 2026 OkinawaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Fuchu · CC BY-SA 4.0On November's rooster days, Asakusa's Otori Shrine fills with stalls selling glittering 'kumade' rakes meant to scoop up luck and fortune for the year ahead.
Sat, Nov 7, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© TR15336300101 · CC BY-SA 4.0Nara's 2026 deer antler-cutting ceremony is held on November 7 (Sat) and 8 (Sun) at the Roen arena within Kasuga Taisha, 11:45-15:00 (doors 11:15, last entry 14:30). Same-day tickets only: adults ¥1,000, children ¥500.
Sat, Nov 7, 2026 11:45 JST NaraSame-day tickets only: adults (junior high and up) ¥1,000, children (elementary) ¥500
OfficialUpcoming© Cobalt Fox · Public DomainOne of Japan's three great fireworks competitions, where rival pyrotechnicians fire 20,000 shells over the Sakuragawa river to be crowned the nation's best.
Sat, Nov 7, 2026 17:30 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© davidgsteadman · Public domainThe year's final grand sumo tournament fills Fukuoka Kokusai Center for 15 days of ring-entering ceremonies, salt-throwing and thunderous bouts of giants.
Sun, Nov 8, 2026 08:30 JST FukuokaFrom ~¥3,800 (arena seats) to box seats
OfficialUpcoming© C2revenge · CC BY-SA 4.0Every 10 November, Otonashi Shrine in Ito (Shizuoka) hosts a famously odd festival: a 'bottom sumo' contest where contestants bump hips to festival music. 2026: Tue 10 Nov, 18:30–21:00.
Tue, Nov 10, 2026 18:30 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Emran Kassim · CC BY 2.0Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea transform into glittering winter wonderlands for Disney Christmas — festive parades, nighttime sparkle and holiday-exclusive shows, food and merchandise at both parks.
Wed, Nov 11, 2026 09:00 JST TokyoRequires a park ticket (1-day from around 7,900 yen, varies by date); all Christmas entertainment is included.
OfficialUpcoming© Ruben Ortega · CC BY-SA 4.0Japan's biggest Spanish festival brings giant paella pans, flamenco, sevillanas contests and Iberian wine to Yoyogi Park for two passionate autumn days.
Sat, Nov 14, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Asia's largest open-submission art fair fills Tokyo Big Sight with thousands of jury-free booths from independent creators of every conceivable medium.
Sat, Nov 14, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoPaid: roughly ¥800–¥1,000 for a one-day pass (children free).
OfficialUpcoming© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Over 6 million LEDs blanket a mountainside amusement park — ride a panoramic chairlift through a sea of light with the Ferris wheel and rides glowing under the stars.
Sat, Nov 14, 2026 16:00 JST TokyoAdmission with illumination around ¥1,000–2,300 (varies; combo tickets available).
OfficialUpcoming© Suicasmo · CC BY-SA 4.0Kyoto's most celebrated maple temple glows after dark in autumn, its crimson leaves mirrored in a tranquil pond.
Sat, Nov 14, 2026 17:30 JST KyotoEvening light-up admission around 600-700 yen
OfficialUpcoming© Takeshi Kuboki · CC BY 2.0Kyoto's Arashiyama bursts into crimson and gold each November, with mountain temples, a scenic train and bamboo groves.
Sun, Nov 15, 2026 08:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Mr.ちゅらさん · CC BY-SA 4.0Japan's earthquake-recovery marathon returns Nov 15, 2026 — 20,000 runners from Kobe City Hall out along the Akashi coast to a Harborland finish.
Sun, Nov 15, 2026 09:00 JST OsakaMarathon ¥18,000 (Japan residents) / ¥24,200 (overseas entrants); 2-person relay ¥30,400 (Fees per the official race guidelines, as of September 18, 2026.)
OfficialUpcoming© Dick Thomas Johnson · CC BY 2.0From late autumn, Tokyo's avenues glow: Roppongi's blue keyaki-zaka and Marunouchi's golden champagne lights dazzle nightly.
Sun, Nov 15, 2026 17:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Joseph Breck & Sons;
New England Agricultural Warehouse;
Henry G. Gilbert N · No restrictionsJapan's largest media, broadcast and pro-AV technology show—cameras, audio, lighting, XR and content tech under one roof.
Wed, Nov 18, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© senngokujidai4434 · CC BY 2.0Izumo Taisha's Kamiari-sai 2026 runs from the Kamimukae welcoming rite at 19:00 on Wednesday, November 18 to the Karasade send-off rite at 16:00 on Wednesday, November 25.
Wed, Nov 18, 2026 19:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© David Kernan · CC BY 4.0The Tokyo chapter of the international MUTEK festival of electronic music and audiovisual art, held each November (dates TBA).
Thu, Nov 19, 2026 12:00 JST TokyoPer-edition passes & single-show tickets (see official site)
OfficialUpcoming© Qiuqizhenghong · CC BY-SA 3.0**Sapporo White Illumination 2026 (46th edition) opens on Thursday 19 November 2026.** Odori stays lit to 24 December, Ekimae-dori to 10 February 2027, and Minami-1-jo-dori, Akapla and the Station South Exit plaza to 13 March 2027. Free to view, with a new Nakajima Park venue added for 2026.
Thu, Nov 19, 2026 16:30 JST SapporoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0For 2026 the market moves to Shin-Toyosu (20 Nov–25 Dec) plus Shiba Park (4–25 Dec) — not Jingu Gaien. Official dates, hours and addresses.
Fri, Nov 20, 2026 16:00 JST Tokyoチケットの価格・販売開始日は未発表（公式が決定次第告知）。
OfficialUpcoming© Type specimen · CC BY-SA 3.0Official: 21 Nov – 30 Dec 2026 at Expo '70 Commemorative Park, across 6 sessions. 10 shops per session, 60 total. Free admission (park fee ¥450).
Sat, Nov 21, 2026 11:00 JST Osaka入場無料。別途、万博記念公園・自然文化園・日本庭園の共通入園料（高校生以上450円・小中学生無料）が必要。ラーメンはチケット制。
OfficialUpcoming© Kakidai · CC BY-SA 3.0Japan's largest German-style Christmas market: a glittering tree, wooden hutte stalls, mulled wine and bay-side lights by the historic red brick warehouses.
Sat, Nov 21, 2026 11:00 JST YokohamaPaid timed entry (around ¥500–1,000 — check official site).
OfficialUpcoming© David Stanley · CC BY 2.0From nightly hour-long showings at Takachiho Shrine to the free two-day, all-33-dance Yokagura Matsuri and month-long hamlet sessions each winter, Takachiho Yokagura is one of Kyushu's most accessible sacred night rituals -- a national Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property since 1978.
Sun, Nov 22, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Daisuke tashiro from Japan · CC BY-SA 2.0Wild Japanese macaques bathe in a steaming mountain hot spring as snow falls around them — the world-famous 'snow monkeys' of Nagano, most iconic in winter.
Tue, Dec 1, 2026 08:30 JST Across JapanPark admission around ¥800; the 'Snow Monkey Pass' (~¥3,500) bundles transport and entry.
OfficialUpcoming© Suicasmo · CC BY-SA 4.0At one of Japan's top hot-spring towns, kimono-clad locals cool the scalding spring water with long wooden paddles in time to folk songs — a centuries-old daily ritual at Netsunoyu.
Tue, Dec 1, 2026 09:30 JST Across JapanAdults ¥700, elementary children ¥350
OfficialUpcoming© Katorisi · CC BY 4.0Chichibu Night Festival 2026 runs Dec 2 (Wed)–3 (Thu); the main night is Dec 3, when lantern-lit UNESCO floats are hauled up Dangozaka and winter fireworks fill the sky for about two hours. Free to attend; about 80 minutes from Ikebukuro — dates, venue and access below.
Wed, Dec 2, 2026 14:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Henxter · CC BY-SA 4.0An indoor winter edition of Belgian Beer Weekend in Shinjuku's airy Sankaku Hiroba — 60-plus Belgian beers, cheese-and-chocolate pairings and embassy chef dinners, warm and comfortable.
Wed, Dec 2, 2026 16:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Wikimedia Commons · Public domainSix lantern-lit floats are hauled up steep Dango-zaka as winter fireworks burst overhead — one of Japan's three great float festivals and a UNESCO heritage event.
Thu, Dec 3, 2026 18:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Chris 73 · CC BY-SA 3.0The 2026 dates have not been announced yet (checked 4 September 2026). Nagoya's German-style Christmas market last ran 5–25 December 2025 at Hisaya-odori Park in central Sakae — free to enter, with a giant live fir tree and German food and crafts. Tokai Television and Chunichi Shimbun organise it, and each edition's dates are published on tokai-tv.com/xmasmarket.
Fri, Dec 4, 2026 16:00 JST NagoyaFree
OfficialUpcoming© 663highland · CC BY 2.5The 40th NAHA Marathon runs Dec 6, 2026: 30,000 runners cross 5 southern Okinawa towns on the Peace Memorial Park course to a finish in Naha.
Sun, Dec 6, 2026 09:00 JST OkinawaEntry ¥11,000 (general) / ¥9,000 (ages 65+ and under 18); spectating along the course is free.
OfficialUpcoming© Volfgang · CC BY-SA 3.0Tokyo Comic Con 2026 runs Dec 11-13 at Makuhari Messe near Tokyo. Hollywood guest signings, screen-used props and a huge cosplay scene, with paid single- and multi-day passes — verified access and photo/autograph booking tips.
Fri, Dec 11, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPaid: single-day and multi-day passes (prices vary by year).
OfficialUpcoming© Chad Davis · CC BY 2.0COMITIA 158 runs on Sunday 13 December 2026, 11:00–16:00, at Tokyo Big Sight East Halls 1, 2, 3, 7 and 8. Entry is by catalog — Tia's Magazine 158, ¥1,400 in advance or ¥1,500 on the day, free for under-12s. 6,000 circle slots. (Official COMITIA site, as of 8 September 2026.)
Sun, Dec 13, 2026 11:00 JST TokyoThe catalog, Tia's Magazine 158, is your entry pass: ¥1,400 in bookshops in advance, ¥1,500 at the venue. Free for under-12s. The catalog goes on sale 15 November 2026. (Official COMITIA site, as of 8 September 2026.)
OfficialUpcoming© Degueulasse · CC BY-SA 3.0A 890-year-old festival whose daytime parade marches costumes from the Heian through Edo eras through central Nara.
Tue, Dec 15, 2026 09:00 JST NaraFree
OfficialUpcoming© 663highland · CC BY-SA 4.0Ito's winter fireworks over the seafront: Sat 19 Dec 2026, 20:30–21:00 at Nagisa Park, paired with the Winter Yosakoi Sozura dance festival and the ITO MARCHE stalls. 10 min walk from JR Ito Station.
Sat, Dec 19, 2026 16:00 JST Across JapanFree
OfficialUpcoming© Raita Futo from Tokyo, Japan · CC BY 2.0Wind, snow and ice encase the alpine firs into surreal white 'snow monsters'; ride the ropeway up and see them glow under colored floodlights at night.
Sat, Dec 26, 2026 17:00 JST Across JapanFree outdoors; Zao Ropeway round-trip fare (several thousand yen) to reach the summit juhyo.
OfficialUpcoming© Taichi · CC BY-SA 3.0Winter Comiket returns to Tokyo Big Sight for a rare 3-day run, Dec 29-31, 2026 — the first 3-day winter edition since C95 in December 2018.
Tue, Dec 29, 2026 10:00 JST TokyoPaid wristband entry required for general visitors each day (exact price not yet announced). Circle (doujin seller) participation is by application, expected to open around August 2026.
OfficialUpcoming© Markus Leupold-Löwenthal · CC BY-SA 3.0Tokyo's official free countdown lights up the Metropolitan Government Building with giant projection mapping, live acts and a midnight cheer in Shinjuku.
Thu, Dec 31, 2026 22:00 JST TokyoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Saigen Jiro · CC0Some two million Osakans cross the arched Sorihashi bridge to greet the year at 'Sumiyossan,' head shrine of Japan's 2,300 Sumiyoshi shrines.
Thu, Dec 31, 2026 22:00 JST OsakaFree
OfficialUpcoming© Marianne North · Public domainSeventeen monks heave on ropes to toll Chion-in's 70-ton bell 108 times on New Year's Eve, each deep strike clearing a worldly desire.
Thu, Dec 31, 2026 22:30 JST KyotoPaid viewing — advance reservation required (from 2025)
OfficialUpcoming© Hyppolyte de Saint-Rambert · CC BY-SA 4.0Kyoto's head Inari shrine welcomes some 2.5 million New Year worshippers who pray for prosperity beneath endless tunnels of vermilion torii.
Thu, Dec 31, 2026 23:00 JST KyotoFree
OfficialUpcoming© Nightcrafter · CC BY-SA 4.0Roughly three million people stream through the towering torii to pray at Tokyo's grandest shrine in the first three days of the year.
Thu, Dec 31, 2026 23:00 JST TokyoFree
